Lemn Sissay reads from his frank and powerful memoir about growing up in Britain's care system in the 70s and 80s, and the redemptive power of poetry. Today, the early days in foster care.

Lemn Sissay is an award winning writer, the author of five poetry collections, and was the official poet for the 2012 Olympics. He was awarded an MBE for services to literature and has worked tirelessly is supporting children in care.

My Name is Why is his courageous account of a childhood spent in a foster family and followed by six years in Britain's institutional care system. Interwoven with documents from his social work file, Lemn uncovers answers to questions that he has been asking since he left care aged 17. Truths are uncovered that reveal Lemn's story to be one of triumph over adversity.

Read by Lemn Sissay, Sean Baker and Susan Jameson.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson
Produced by Elizabeth Allard Show less